HOW TO BE A RESPONSIBLE WOLFDOG OWNER

RESPONSIBILITY

           Acquiring an animal, whether it be a goldfish, beagle, German Shepherd, horse, wolfdog, etc. is a responsibility no one should take lightly... Responsible ownership is not unique to just the wolfdog owner -- it is a long-term commitment to house, feed, train and seek proper veterinary care for any animal. Given the same proper breeding, upbringing, care and training as any other breed of canine, a wolfdog will respond to humans the same as any other large breed of dog. The key is a responsible owner. Responsibility can be broken down into various forms:

OWNER

           The responsible owner researches the animal and its behavior and lifestyle before purchasing one. When "he" and the facility are prepared, "he" researches the background of the particular animal he is thinking about purchasing. There are many wolfdogs being bred, just as there are many German Shepherds, Dobermans, Collies, etc. being bred -- not every one of these make good pets. A sincere new owner will investigate the background of whatever he is buying to be sure he is getting what he expects as far as quality, stability, confirmation, sociability, etc. Just because the Collie has AKC papers does not mean it will be as well behaved as "Lassie'. Just because the wolfdog is a mix of wolf and dog does not mean it is going to eat someone's grandmother.

           Once the animal is purchased, the next responsibility is the training and socialization of the animal. The responsible wolfdog owner does not acquire a pet and after a few days grow tired of it, place it in a cage or tie it outside, and feed and water it once a day. The responsible owner finds or makes time to feed, groom, play and train his wolfdog throughout its entire life. The responsible owner makes sure he has a proper and secure enclosure in which to keep his wolfdog safe. This means that the animal cannot escape and that no one or thing can gain access to and harm the pet.

           The responsible owner does not purchase a pet he is not sure of keeping or handling. Just as an owner of a one acre parcel of ground on the outskirts of town should not consider obtaining a buffalo, nor should a small elderly lady living in an apartment consider a dog bred for sled pulling -- an Siberian Husky. A person in a close environment should not purchase a high % wolf. In this setting an animal further removed wolf is more appropriate. A responsible wolfdog owner would not subject either of these animals to such an unhappy lifestyle.

NOTE: A pure wolf is not a pet everyone should or could keep and properly raise. These animals require a more experienced owner/trainer.

  BREED CLUB

           It is the responsibility of a wolfdog association to help and educate owners and the public about this particular breed. Both you and your animal will benefit from membership and participation in such associations.

PARENTAL OR CHILDCARE GIVER

           Upon giving birth to a child, it is the parents' responsibility to make sure the child is properly educated on how and when to approach animals. A child should not be left unsupervised with any animal - indoors or out. If constant supervision cannot be given, an alternative type of security or containment must be found. A child should also be taught to respect others' property.

           Where problems exist concerning wolves and/or wolfdogs, usually the animal is not the problem -- irresponsible people are. Don't be one of them!

Here are some handy DO's and DON'Ts. These are very important steps towards enjoying your wolfdog and becoming a truly responsible wolfdog owner.

DOs

DO give your wolfdog lots of time, attention and love. Make him/ her a family member -- part of the pack".

DO fence in your yard (or an area) with 6-8 ft. height to keep your wolfdog home and safe.

DO use your leash whenever your dog is of your property.

DO familiarize your wolfdog with other people, your home and car.

DO clean up your yard and pen daily.

DO pick up after your dog if he leaves a "calling card" on public or private property.

DO teach your dog good manners and attend  local obedience training classes.

DO have your dog checked by your veterinarian regularly.

DO all you can to help your Association maintain its standards of quality with this unique breed.

DON'Ts

DON'T acquire a wolfdog on the spur of the moment -- first learn and research this unique companion. Be sure you have the knowledge, time, money and are willing to provide daily care and love.

DON'T let your wolfdog run loose EVER and, if female, never put her out unsupervised when in season.

DON'T let your wolfdog bark or howl at night for any extended period of time.

DON'T leave children alone with any dog or wolfdog unsupervised.

DON'T forget to brush your wolfdog often. This is a socializing activity.

DON'T forget to provide ample food, water, and shelter for your wolfdog.

DON'T be embarrassed to ask for help with your wolfdog or puppy Write your Association with any questions you may have.

In an emergency call (412) 229-PACK

DON'T FORGET -- YOUR WOLFDOG IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY.

      BE A RESPONSIBLE OWNER!